There comes a time when one wonders what the single most versatile pistol is. I am nearing retirement and I want to be debt free when it occurs. I am used to a large collection and I intend to cull the herd. A minimalist list is also of benefit to those just starting to collect or on a limited budget.

I know that I will never be able to live without a 1911, Browning High-Power, or one of my CZs with the Kadet 22 Conversion unit. My do all pistol will become my Glock 23 (G23). Why choose the G23? I will be shoot 40 S&W, 357 Sig, and 9mm because I have conversion barrels in those calibers. This list also includes my Glock 21 as I can shoot 45acp and 10mm rounds in it.

Along with these pistols, I intend to keep some pistols of little value that I know work. What are these bargain basement pistols? I have a $135 4” Ruger MK I , Bersa Thunder .380 and 45acp that cost me $200 each, one of my Makarovs, and lastly, my Star BM.

What are your thoughts on this subject, my picks, or what would you keep from your collection?

Regards,

Richard :D

09-20-2006, 09:16 AM

Shipwreck

I've cycled thru so many guns in the past three years - I prev had a good paying extra job, and it was strictly for gun money. So, I can say, right now, I would get rid of nothing. I've already gone thru guns I didn't like and got rid of them in order to buy the next.

RIght now, there really are no handguns out there that I even wanna buy.

09-20-2006, 09:41 AM

Mike Barham

I've actually faced a similar question recently. When I deployed here to Yuma for the border mission, I had to pick a minimum number of weapons to bring with me. I selected a Glock 26 and a KelTec P3AT. Why?

* The Glock works as a house gun with a G17 mag inserted. It works as a belt gun with a finger-rest mag inserted. It works as a pocket/ankle gun with a flat-bottom mag inserted. Light, easy to carry, I shoot it well, and it holds many BBs.

* The P3AT is the best pocket/backup gun I have ever used. It is super light, very flat, reasonably powerful, and just disappears in a pocket. It's an "always gun."

If I could have only two pistols, these would be it. My interest in pistols is primarily defensive, rather than recreational, however.

09-20-2006, 10:06 AM

Baldy

I don't think you should thin the herd Richard. I would use unwanted guns as trader's at the gun shows to get other guns that you might want in the future. I mean their not eating anything and their payed for. You are going to have more free time to think this over after you retire. I wouldn't rush things. Good Luck.

09-20-2006, 10:44 AM

9x19

Richard,

Sounds like you have it pretty well covered... the only Kimber I kept was my Rimfire Target in .17HM2/.22LR... of course I still have my Dad's old 1911.

I too have kept some of the inexpensive guns that work (Bersas and Mak), and a smattering of carry guns (Kel-Tecs and Kahrs), with just a few quality service size pistols (Glocks and a piar of Rugers).

Good luck and enjoy your retirement...:rolleyes:

09-20-2006, 11:03 AM

SigZagger

I agree, it seems you have selected a fine collection. Like other gun owners, I've sold or traded away many, many guns. I try to stick to useable guns. In my case, the 9mm. One for target accuracy, one for competition, and one for self defense. Of course I've got my one revolver in 38/357 and one SA for hunting using a 357 round.

09-20-2006, 12:07 PM

Hal8000

I cull only what I dont like or dont use...

09-20-2006, 01:19 PM

Revolver

If you want to part ways with your S&W 29-2, 29-3, 13, 66, or any other DA S&W revolvers or pistols you have, be sure to let me know.:smt002